7 spectacular videos and infographics of icebreakers

A true shortcut for ocean freight transportation opens up between the Pacific and the Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America after the passing of an icebreaker.

In the future, the northern sea route could become one of the most important commercial maritime routes in the world. Some experts even propose that an alternative passage to the Panama and Suez canals will account for 25% of trade between Europe and Asia by 2030.

We’ll have to wait and see. But for now, we are delighted with a selection of videos and infographics of these powerful all-terrain ships currently plying through the glacial seas.

Do you know how many miles a ship from Rotterdam to Yokohama would save? You will find the answer in this instructive infographic that visualizes the difference between the northern route and the route that goes through the Suez Canal; in addition to its history, advantages, challenges and future prospects.

We would love the opportunity to travel aboard an icebreaker. Until that day arrives, we can at least experience it through this interactive chronicle of Maersk Peary crossing one of the most inaccessible destinations of the world: Antarctica.

This spectacular video takes us on a journey to the North Pole on a colossus icebreaker with 75,000 horsepower. The massive power generated by two nuclear reactors makes “50 Years of Victory” the largest and most powerful icebreaker in the world and can break through masses of ice up to 2.8 meters thick.

Scientists at the National Laser Systems Astrofizika Centre in Russia have developed a new system that uses fiber laser and fiber optics to break the ice. In this infographic you will understand the innovation behind the SMLK (High Power Laser System Marine).